[Elecraft] K3 - Ergonomics or ?

[Dick Dickinson]

In general, I don't take exception to the comments regarding K3 ergonomics.


 

One of my areas of interest for enhancements lays in the realm of received /
perceived audio.  Often I've seen the audio qualities of the K3 mentioned.
Included in the aspect of receive audio are DSP / Noise Reduction, Noise
Blanking, Notch and more.

 

Some 6 to 8 months back, it seems there was mention of revamping the K3
innards rather than a successor rig...K4 or such.  I think the notion may
have included replacement circuit boards that might be done at the factory
or perhaps by the owner.  The post didn't generate a lot of ongoing comment
as I recall, but I think such a notion might well interest a good portion of
the K3 owner base.

 

Of course there is a lot to be considered.  Important is the likely cost to
the owner and the profitability for Elecraft along with the degree of
complexity from a number of points of view.  

 

The KX3 has provided some enhancements over the K3.  The direct-to-digital
RF conversion and I/Q outputs come to mind.  I've not had personal
experience with the KX3, so I can't say if there have been enhancements to
the received / perceived audio.  Perhaps someone with a K3, an KX3 and
suitable external audio amplification and speakers can comment on that.

 

In any event, I hope the discussion of K3 Ergonomics would not derail
consideration of a revamp of the K3 internals.

 

 

Best regards,

Dick - KA5KKT